Shower switch with spout - device types and features of
A shower system with a spout and switch, or more simply, a faucet is an essential element of any shower or bath. Currently, there are many types of mixers, which differ not only structurally but also functionally, which complicates their choice. To help in this matter, we consider what types of these devices exist, what functions they have and what their features are.
Types of faucets
So, faucets with shower differ in a number of signs.
Below are the main ones:
- Purpose;
- Design;
- Principle of operation;
- Functionality;
- Type of diverter (switch).
Purpose
On this basis, the products in question are divided into two types:
- For bathroom;
- For shower.
The differences, as a rule, are in functionality and installation method. For example, faucets that are designed for showers rarely have a spout, and shower heads are necessarily attached to a solid pipe. True, there are also multifunctional devices that have, in addition to a hard shower, a spout and even a watering can on a soft hose.
Bath shower systems with spout can be used as a regular faucet, for example, to set water in a bathroom, wash hands under a faucet, etc.
Design
Depending on the design, shower systems can be divided into the following types:
| System type | Description |
| Panels | The system is built into the wall near the bathroom. As a rule, a shower panel with a bath spout is a whole shower complex consisting of the following elements:
The price of shower panels is usually quite high. |
| Racks | A simpler design, which is usually a traditional faucet with a shower head on a rigid stand. There are two types of shower head with a spout for the bath:
It should be noted that the rack can be used not only for the bathroom, but also for the shower. Like the panels, they can additionally be equipped with a hand shower. |
| Rain shower | Shower mixers with rain shower and spout differ shower head, which has a large size. Due to this, water droplets fully pour the body over the entire surface, as a result of which the effect of rain is achieved. The tropical shower can be realized both in the form of a panel, and a rack. |
| Mixers | They represent the simplest device that is equipped with a flexible shower. Often used faucets for shower with a long spout, which can be rotated and used in addition to the sink. |
The choice in this case depends solely on your own wishes - someone needs a mixer with a flexible shower, but someone wants to have a panel with hydromassage and additional functions.
The principle of operation of the mixer
By the principle of operation of the mixer, shower systems can be divided into the following types:
- Valve - are a classic design with two valves. To adjust the head and adjust the temperature, both valves must be rotated, which is somewhat inconvenient, however, it is possible to fine tune the flow temperature.
- Single lever - temperature and pressure can be adjusted with one lever, respectively, the mixer can be operated with one hand. True, fine-tune the desired temperature a little more difficult.
It should be noted that the locking mechanism of these devices is made in the form of a cartridge with ceramic discs. Because of this, it is more reliable and durable, but at the same time more demanding of water quality. Therefore, at the entrance must be a coarse filter.
- Sensory - to turn on and off these devices, you don’t even need to touch them with your own hands, since the built-in photocell detects movement and the water supply is turned on automatically. The only thing there are regulators that allow you to adjust the optimum temperature of the stream, as well as the time of water supply.
As is the case with the design of the soul, the choice depends on their own preferences.
Functionality
The simplest design is a mixer with a flexible or rigid shower.
However, shower systems may additionally have a number of other functions:
- As mentioned above, the device can have two souls.
- Massage nozzles - embedded in the shower panel.
- Thermostat - provides a constant optimal flow temperature, i.e. The shower system with a thermostat with a spout works automatically.
- Switching shower modes - as a rule, hand-held shower heads are equipped with this function.
The cost of the device usually depends on the functionality.
Type of divertor
A divertor is a switch that redirects the flow from the spout to the shower head or vice versa.
Most often in the mixers there are two types of diverters:
- Lever (flag) - flow switching is performed by turning the lever to the right or left. Most often, this switch is found in two-valve mixers. The switch is a small ball valve.
- Exhaust - used in single lever mixers. To switch the flow, you need to pull the handle or vice versa push it. As in lever designs, the flow is redirected by a ball valve.
It should be noted that recently there have been ceramic divertors that are more durable than spherical ones, moreover, they provide smooth switching.
Note! Repair diverter - switch with the function of the shower on the spout involves its replacement, as the mechanism can not be repaired.
Selection features
After reviewing the existing types of shower systems, when choosing, first of all, you need to decide on its type, location and functionality.
In addition, you need to pay attention to the following points:
- Manufacturer - the best products are from German manufacturers, however, they are quite expensive. A cheaper alternative are Polish faucets and shower systems.
- Material - the most durable mixers are made of bronze or brass, since scale is practically not deposited on their walls. The disadvantage of such products is the high cost. Therefore, stainless steel appliances are the most popular.
The purchase of silumin products should be avoided. This material is usually used by Chinese manufacturers. The fact is that silumin quickly cracks and loses an attractive appearance.
- Weight - quality products always have a large enough weight. If the device is lightweight, it means it is made of low-quality materials.
Tip! Acquire any plumbing, including shower systems, preferably in large hardware stores. In this case, you can count on the seller to comply with warranty.
Here, perhaps, is the whole instruction for choosing a shower system.
Conclusion
Despite the large selection of faucets and shower systems, choosing the right device is not difficult. To do this, you only need to decide on its type and design, as well as pay attention to the nuances listed above.
You can read more information on this topic from the video in this article.